Notre Dame Opens Academic Fraud Probe

SOUTH BEND, Ind. (21Alive) -- The University of Notre Dame is investigating possible academic dishonesty involving "several students" including football players.

The university confirmed the probe around 5 p.m. Friday. In a statement, Notre Dame said the investigation involves "evidence that students had submitted papers and homework that had been written for them by others" during the summer session of classes.

Notre Dame did not release the names of the football players being investigated, but said they will be withheld from practice during the investigation.

“Integrity is at the heart of our mission and academic misconduct will not be tolerated at Notre Dame,” university president Fr. John Jenkins, C.S.C., said in a statement. “If the suspected improprieties are proven, we will use the experience to reinforce among our students the importance of honesty in all that they do. We are also examining ways of better conveying to students that they can avail themselves of legitimate academic assistance without resorting to cheating.”

Because the investigation involves potential NCAA violations, Notre Dame notified the NCAA of the probe, the school's statement said.

"If it determines that the student-athletes would have been ineligible during past competition, Notre Dame will voluntarily vacate any victories in which they participated," the statement added.

The Irish are scheduled to play Rice on Aug. 30 to open the season. Las Vegas oddsmakers have removed the game from bets.

University of Notre Dame Full StatementThe University of Notre Dame is investigating suspected academic dishonesty on the part of several students, including four members of the football team. Because of the potential for NCAA violations, the University notified the NCAA today, and the four football players will be held out of practice and competition until the conclusion of an ongoing investigation and the University honor code process. Any possible academic dishonesty by other students will be addressed appropriately.

“Integrity is at the heart of our mission and academic misconduct will not be tolerated at Notre Dame,” said Rev. John I. Jenkins, C.S.C., the University’s president. “If the suspected improprieties are proven, we will use the experience to reinforce among our students the importance of honesty in all that they do. We are also examining ways of better conveying to students that they can avail themselves of legitimate academic assistance without resorting to cheating.”

Evidence that students had submitted papers and homework that had been written for them by others was initially detected at the end of the summer session, and referred to the compliance office in athletics on July 29. The Office of General Counsel initiated an immediate investigation.

That investigation is ongoing. If it determines that the student-athletes would have been ineligible during past competition, Notre Dame will voluntarily vacate any victories in which they participated.

“The University is committed to thorough resolution of this matter, consistent with its commitment to academic integrity and adherence to NCAA rules," Father Jenkins said.

Students who are subject to the investigation will remain enrolled until its conclusion.

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